Water Near Electrical Panel

jamiedolan

There is a water pipe that runs to a outside valve that is not directly above my service panel, but is close.

Is this going to be a problem when I upgrade my service to 200A. With a new larger panel, this pipe may be even closer to the panel.

Will it be ok as along as it does not come directly above the panel? It is all copper pipe.

Thank You,
Jamie

Termite

Nothing can be in the space immediately above the panel. If the panel were to magically levitate straight upward, it can't hit anything but framing or electrical. The water lines can be very close without violating the code, but can't be directly above it.

wire_twister

Thats why I always use #14 screws to hold my panels in, keeps em from floating up.

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Jimmy

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JohnJ0906

Residential loadcenters (panels) are usually 14 ½" wide.
As long as the water pipe will not end up over the panel, you are OK. You could install a drip shield if it will make you feel better.

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John from Baltimore
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Speedy Petey

This is a service replacement. Put the panel back where it was regardless if there is a water pipe above it or not.

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Termite

Although I don't disagree with you, this would be a subjective call that the building official may or may not agree with.

If it is possible to shift the panel one way or the other to avoid the plumbing, doing so is always advisable.

jamiedolan

Based on the size of the QO load center, and after looking at things again, I will be able to keep the water so it is not directly above the panel.

There is however a PVC pipe running directly above the panel for the furnaces power vent. This is not a big deal to move if it is necessary. But the power vent pipe should be the only thing that will be in the way of the panels ceiling space.

Thank You everyone for the input.

Jamie

kbsparky

That power vent pipe is less likely to sweat condensation than the outside faucet pipe.

Dripping water and electrical panels do not mix very well.